UTEP is bringing back members of the 1988 football team for its homecoming game against North Texas this weekend. That squad won eight games and went to the Independence Bowl against Southern Miss. The Miners lost that game to Bret Favre and the Golden Eagles 38-18. The UTEP marketing team created a terrific promotion to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the '88 team. The first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive an orange replica jersey from the Independence Bowl season. Gates open at 4 p.m.

UTEP Athletics.
UTEP Athletics.
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The Miners are still winless this football season and their program record losing streak is now 17 games after a tough 30-21 loss to UTSA on Saturday. UTEP did receive some good news today when head coach Dana Dimel announced that starting quarterback Kai Locksley could return by Saturday and play against North Texas. The junior signal caller is in a walking boot with a high ankle sprain, but he could return to practice as early as Wednesday if he heals fast enough. Senior Ryan Metz is taking the first team reps while Locksley is out.

Matthew Metz.
Matthew Metz.
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UTEP has had plenty of opportunities the last two games to break the losing streak, but turnovers continue to plague them. A muffed punt return and Locksley pick helped the Roadrunners outscore the Miners 21-0 over a 4 1/2 minute period in the first half. Despite trailing 24-7 at halftime, UTEP rallied and closed to within 3-points early in the fourth quarter. Locksley was a big reason for the comeback and he became the first Miners quarterback to rush for over 100 yards twice in a season since Kevin Ward in 1983. He injured his ankle on a late 4th quarter drive and Metz's 4th and 1 pass was broken up. UTSA took over and kicked a field goal to ice the game.

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